Has a Career in Missions Been Worth It?

Frank Martin, Retiree
The Call, January-March 2017

As we nudged closer to retirement, we were asked the question: “Has a career in missions been worth it?” Our answer was always: “How many ways can you say YES?” We would do it again in a heartbeat!

For Sharon and I, 1 Corinthians 2:9-10 (NIV) encapsulates our missionary career. 

However, as it is written:
“What no eye has seen,
what no ear has heard,
and what no human mind has conceived”—
the things God has prepared for those who love him—
these are the things God has revealed to us by his Spirit.

This verse is so true as we have “seen” much and “heard” much over our 39 years of ministry in America and around the world. In our heart of hearts, we never dreamed that we would be able to travel to 14 different countries and see God’s work there.

God’s faithfulness over the years to supply our spiritual, physical, and financial needs has caused our faith to continue to grow. Many times our only source of help was through Him. 

We had the opportunity to work with many people who had a variety of personalities and ministry styles. It took all of us to advance God’s kingdom. With ministering in so many different places, we were able to enjoy a variety of cultures. They were as varied as the people who lived there. The foods, the customs, the music, the smiles, the different means of travel, all drew us in. It gave us a greater appreciation for God’s creativity.

Of course, who can never forget jet lag! Everyone should get the chance to experience that: traveling hours and hours and then being five, eight, or 12 hours away from the time your body is used to!

A special blessing we received was the friendships we made with missionaries, volunteers, and nationals. Oh, how we have been blessed! We have laughed together, cried together, worked together, and worshiped together. Together, we have advanced God’s work for His glory.

ACT: This month, hide the words of 1 Corinthians 2:9-10 in your heart. Memorize this passage as a reminder for your missions journey.